THE WRAP

Ukrainian prog rock albums are a rare birds what is not strange - after decades of bans on any rock music in former Soviet Union, rock bands were more underground protest form, than form of musical art. During last two decades,when the political situation was changed, rock music had it's fast and short peak, and later was almost totally disappeared under commercial never ending singing strip-show on scene there.

Sunchild's third album is really nice surprise - prog rock is far not the music you can expect as Ukrainian export! Brainchild of Antony Kalugin (who run few more musical projects as well), the band presents on this album eclectic and quite unusual mix of decades of prog rock legacy in one place.

Musical base of all album is obviously Genesis/ Marillion influences, but played on characteristic Eastern Slavic manner - with stronger accent on melodies and emotional field. Kalugin sings mostly all vocals on the album, and possibly this is one of most controversial decision - not like his vocals are bad, but emotive, almost exalted singing manner is not for everyone taste.

The Wrap is a conceptual album in a key as Genesis have been recorded in their 70s, but musically it doesn't sound as just simple clone. Besides of vintage keyboards based sound, there are many elements coming from different rock genres included on main sound (and they often come from more modern period, as heavy metal guitars and almost doom short pieces). The music sounds as retrospective of some prog tradition from few decades presented in one mix (sometimes successful. in moments - not so much), performed in soulful manner, often removing rock sharpness and adding melodic emotional performing.

Not the release for anyone interested in any original prog (old or new), but quite pleasant work for neo-prog fans.